I love peanut butter! If you’re a fanatic like me, you’ll love how quick, simple, creative and healthy making your own nut butters can be. Homemade nut butters are preservative-free and packed with heart-healthy fats. They are a versatile ingredient that’s both filling and delicious. Smear these nut butters on a cracker, a slice of apple or crusty whole grain bread or blend it into your favorite recipe.

The How-To

Step 1: Pick Your Nut
For the best flavor, choose a raw version. Save money in the bulk aisle of your grocery store. Here are some varieties to get you started; use one type or mix and match for a combination of flavors.

Peanuts (actually a legume)

Cashews

Almonds

Walnuts

Pistachios

Macadamia Nuts

Step 2: Roast The Nuts
Enhance the true flavor by arranging your nut(s) of choice in a single layer on a baking sheet and roasting them in a 350 degree F oven for 5-10 minutes or until golden brown and aromatic. Be diligent as they can burn quickly!

Step 3: Make it Creamy
Add your roasted nuts and a few tablespoons of mild vegetable oil (try canola) to your food processor. Turn it on and blend! Be sure to wipe down the sides once in a while to get a consistent final product. How long your process your butter will depend on the texture (creamy to chunky) you want. Add a little water to thin it out if you don’t want to go overboard on the oil.

Step 4: Season and Serve
You can keep it simple with a pinch of salt, or go completely natural and savor all that nutty goodness. If you are feeling a bit daring try some of these tasty add-ins that will turn your nut butter from simple to superb.

Cinnamon

Chili Flakes or Cayenne Pepper

Melted Chocolate

Vanilla Extract

Cumin

Maple Syurp

Tamari

Step 5: Serve it UpSnack on your creation with fruit or crackers, or try one of these easy recipes: